The Wilmingtonian., 1887-10-08
VOL. VINO. 300
Let Mr.. Bates Speak.

The bare assertion coming as IL docs, lrom
prominent and intelligent citizens OF Will
mipgton that the laws of the State need
change claims at least the courtesy of atten-
tion from those who are rot disposed to con-
cede fact in the statement. Those who do
not consider that the laws require change
equally with those who do should be ready
to listen to the arguments pro and con.
What is necessary is that these arguments
be made upon the public platform.
This community is anxious to listen to
public dissertations upon the question. We
known Of one gentleman, the Hon. George
Bates whose words in this direction would
be listened to with critical attention. He
would be the spokesman, we think, for the
new constitutionalists. We know OF no
leader, if any exist who would take the
stump in opposition.
There is great anxiety to ascertain who
of our politicians, or public men, are oppos-
ed to the movement of reform. Will they
come forward and speak upon the question
Or, are they afraid to express themselves.
There is curiosity to hear Senator Gray
and also Judge Grubb. Others also might
both interest and curiosity. OF course it is
expected that they will speak to the point
and not evade the question which is simply
of an endorsement or opposition--to the pro-
posed changes.
Let Mr.. Bates give a catalogue of the
points which the new oonstitutionalists are
demanding accompanying his statement with
the argument for their support, and then let
the conservatives state their objections. But
above all we want to hear our public men
speak and not to keep silent as they seem at
present only too well inclined to do.
1t is their duty toIspeak now. They are
public men and this is the most important
public question that has arisen in the last
half century.
This community il anxious to hear the
opponents Of constitutional change expires
themselves, for the majority OF Wilmington
ians believe that the arguments of the re-
formers are imperative and mainly unassail-
able in candid discussion.
We are anxious to know what oul oppor-
ents have to say and also who they are.
We believe we have no.reason to fear their
arguments while there is always cause TO
fear hidden opponent. 1t is only right too
according to all the traditionary laws of po-
litical debate or partisanship that the lead
ers state their case in public. If there are
those who hold, according to ther concep-
tion strong arguments against reform, or
arguments weightier than those Of the re-
formers, we demand that they be stated
publicly now.
This is candid upon the pal Of the re form
ers. Let us see an equal candor exhibited
by the conservatives.
Democratic reformers are entitled to the
support and thorough endorsement of the
Republican element in this movement. When
these combine their forces and go legi-
timately, with thorough organization, into
the work, there need not we think, be much
apprehension as to its success.
It need not be questioned or denied that
muchis expected in this fight from our Repub-
lican friends. We canddly admit that sue
cess is doubtful without their aid. 1t is be-
lieved that there are numerous false friends
of reform in both parties. Most of the op.
position may be locke for among the Demo,
cracy. But Democratic reiormers will take
care of that section if only our Republican
friends in this cause will look after theil
doubtful brethren.
However, let the fight commence; the
sooner the better In fact procraS tinatior
at this mon ent is the greatest danger thai
presents ITSELF Sides must be taken, or al
opportunity will be allowed of hedging. LIE
all declare themselves SO that we may know
friend and foe. Organization should com
mence Immediately. Reform clubs shoulC
be formed in each ward, and all those of ou
citizens Republicans and Democrats alik'
be given the opportunity of enrolling them
selves as reformers.